Cats may require anesthesia for various medical procedures. This can include surgeries, dental cleanings, or diagnostic imaging. Today, our vets will discuss anesthesia for cats and what you can expect from it.
Why use anesthesia on cats?
Some veterinary treatments, such as dentistry, spay and neutering procedures, and surgery, must be performed while your cat is sedated. Most healthy cats, including senior cats, have no problems with anesthesia, and the dangers are generally tied to the treatment being performed rather than the anesthetic itself.
Is anesthesia safe for cats?
Anesthesia can be safe for cats when administered by a trained veterinarian and when the cat is properly monitored throughout the procedure. However, there are always risks associated with anesthesia, so it's important to discuss any concerns with your vet before proceeding.
Are there any risks to anesthesia?
When we employ any anesthetic drug, there is always the possibility of an unpleasant reaction. Patients who are sedated lose their typical reflex capacity to swallow. If there is food in the stomach, the cat may vomit while under anesthesia or shortly afterward.
Almost half of all anesthetic-related cat deaths occur within the first few hours after surgery. There are always hazards when administering any anesthetic medication to a patient, regardless of how long the patient remains sedated. Reactions can range from moderate to severe, with a wide range of symptoms including edema at the injection site. Fasting before anesthesia, as recommended by your veterinarian, is critical to lowering your cat's risk.
How is anesthesia administered?
Anesthesia in cats can be administered through inhalation, intravenous injection, or a combination of both methods. Inhalation anesthesia involves the cat breathing in anesthetic gases through a mask or endotracheal tube, while intravenous injection delivers anesthesia directly into the bloodstream for rapid onset and control.
Do vets monitor an anesthetized cat?
Yes, we do! Several practices are in place to make sure your cat doesn't suffer any complications from anesthesia. These include:
- A technician or assistant is present during the anesthetic event to monitor your cat's vital signs and to help adjust anesthetic levels, under the direction of the veterinarian.
- A heart rate monitor counts your cat's heartbeats per minute. Anesthesia and other factors can affect heart rate. By monitoring your cat's heart rate, your veterinarian can make anesthetic adjustments quickly.
- An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures your cat's heart rate and rhythm. It can detect arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats. If an arrhythmia is discovered, your veterinarian can adjust the anesthetic accordingly.
- If your cat is enduring a lengthy surgical treatment, their core body temperature may be monitored. Body temperature fluctuations might lead to serious problems.
- A blood pressure monitor measures the blood pressure of your cat. It provides detailed information on your cat's cardiovascular state when used in conjunction with other monitoring equipment.
- Pulse oximetry may be used to monitor the amount of oxygen in your cat's blood and their pulse rate.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) is frequently monitored alongside oxygen because it helps assess if your cat is getting enough oxygen under anesthesia.
How long does anesthesia last in cats?
The duration of anesthesia in cats can vary depending on the type of anesthesia used and the individual cat's health. Generally, anesthesia in cats can last anywhere from 20 minutes to a few hours, with some effects potentially lingering for up to 24 hours after the procedure.
When can a cat eat after anesthesia?
Cats can typically eat within a few hours after waking up from anesthesia, but it is important to follow your veterinarian's specific instructions should they give you any. They may recommend waiting a certain amount of time or starting with small amounts of food to prevent any digestive issues.
Are there specific behaviors I should look for after my cat's anesthesia?
After anesthesia, you should monitor your cat for signs of disorientation, weakness, and lack of appetite. Additionally, keep an eye out for any unusual vocalizations or excessive licking or grooming behaviors. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat isn't back to normal 24 hours after anesthesia.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
If you notice any concerning behaviors in your cat after anesthesia, contact our Ventura vets. Your cat's wellness is our top priority.
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